For the Fall 2020 list of spots that have outfitted their outdoor dining areas for cooler temps with igloos, heaters, hot beverages and more, consult the YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR DINING GUIDE.
Read on for a curated list of some of the best decks, patios, rooftops and sidewalk spots where you can enjoy a good meal while maintaining your distance from fellow diners.
You can sort by neighborhood if you’re looking for something nearby or just scroll to see if your regular hang is on the list — we’ll be adding restaurants as they open for so stay tuned and definitely check back for updates.
Word to the wise: we’ll be adjusting the info below as needed so it’s still probably your best bet to give the restaurant a ring to make sure they can accommodate you.
80 Thoreau
Chef-owner Carolyn Johnson and her 80 Thoreau team have opened up a 22-seat al fresco dining area outside their popular Concord restaurant. They're accepting reservations for their five tables at specific seating times throughout the evening so you can enjoy their straightforward-yet-refined New American cuisine out under the open sky.
Alba
With high walls and lush greenery, Alba’s rooftop dining area makes it easy to forget that you’re dining in the middle of Quincy Center. It’s a perfect location for eating a steak under the stars or enjoying the game with a cold drink and some fresh air.
Alcove
Located on Lovejoy Wharf, Alcove has a delightful patio right on the harbor walk and boasts a stunning view of the Zakim Bridge AND it's dog friendly! The flowery but sleek patio is perfect for enjoying Alcove's Mediterranean cuisine with friends (two- or four-legged).
Alden & Harlow
The subterranean spot on Brattle Street is bringing their cult favorite Secret Burger outdoors with their large patio. The seasonal hang sports blue umbrellas so you can lounge in the shade while you sip a cocktail and people watch in Harvard Square.
Area Four - Cambridge
Looking out over the green at Technology Square, Area Four’s patio is a perfect perch for an outdoor meal. Snag one of the wrought iron tables for lunch or dinner and enjoy chef-owner Jeff Pond's menu of small plates, sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas (don't miss the garlic knots or the Brussels sprouts salad, which have been mainstays since way back).
25 Edwin H Land Boulevard
Cambridge, MA 02141
617-868-4444
Bambara
Bambara has expanded their outdoor seating area, taking over the Kimpton Marlowe Hotel's courtyard to allow for social distanced seating, in a lovely outdoor setting. Just a stone’s throw from the banks of the Charles, it’s an awfully nice spot for a bite to eat and some fresh air.
B&G Oysters
In the summer months, oyster lovers and seafood fans spill out onto the picturesque little patio at B&G Oysters. Fresh seafood tastes best outside, so seats on the shaded, just-below-grade terrace fill up quickly.
Bar Mezzana
Satisfy your craving for a coastal Italian vacay right in the South End on Bar Mezzana’s sidewalk patio. Blue skies and bright umbrellas will have to stand in for towering cliffs and water views but Colin Lynch deceptively simple regional cuisine (try the crudo) will transport you.
Bianca
Bianca's bright and cheery Chestnut Hill patio is the perfect backdrop for their fun (and delicious!) fare. Find a perch under one of the umbrellas to catch some shade or bask in the sun and fresh air.
Black Lamb
Black Lamb, the stylish South End restaurant from chef-owner Colin Lynch (his third), expanded their pastio onto Union Park this season so there's plenty of room whether you're looking for al fresco lunch, dinner or weekend brunch.
Bodega Canal
Post up on Bodega Canal's brand new sidewalk patio the next time you've got a hankering for tacos and margaritas (which, be honest, is pretty much always). The West End Mexican spot is open for dinner Monday through Saturday so they've got you covered whenever the mood strikes.
Bostonia Public House
Champions of industry, ladies who lunch and tourists all vie for spots on Bostonia Public House's sidewalk patio. Tucked right in the heart of the bustling Financial District, it's well-suited for an occasion - snacking on after-work apps or sipping one of their 70 premium wines.
